Destination:  Peru: Lima | Cusco | Machu Picchu | Cusco |

Tour Commences In:  Lima

Tour Concludes in:  Cusco - Lima

Number of Days:  12 days / 11 nighs

Tour Style: Boutique Small Group Tour

Accommodation:  Modern Boutique Hotels

Meals: B; L; D;

Leaders: Professional specialised guide & Australian Host

Transportation:

Tour Grading:  Moderate:

• Tour of modern and colonial Lima

• Visit to Larco Museum

• Magical Water Circuit

• Maras Salt Pools, Moray Terraces and Authentic Quechua Village

• Lunch at Wayra, a hidden gem in the Sacred Valley

• Chincheros with weaving demostration, Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo

• Machu Picchu excursion aboard the Hiram Bingham luxury train

Optional - Hike to Huayna Picchu, the pyramid-shape mountain above Machu Picchu

• Sunrise Breakfast at Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond’s Exclusive

• Cusco Handicraft Markets and San Blas Neighborhood  

• Cusco city tour, Sacsayhuaman archaeological complex and The Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco

Day 1:    Thursday :    Arrival Lima: (D)
Welcome to Peru.  You will be met by our guide at the Airport and enjoy a private transfer to our hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have free time to explore Lima. Your tour guide is able to offer you a number of options including sightseeing and shopping.
Later this evening, rendezvous in our hotel Lobby and meet fellow travellers before departing for our welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
You may wish to arrive a day earlier to shop or maybe just to get your bearings and recover from any jet lag you may have. If you do choose to arrive early, we can extend your hotel bookings and provide any information or advice you may need in order to make the most of your time and get yourself familiar with the wonderful city of Lima.

Day 2:    Friday :    Lima:    (B)
Today we have a half day city tour of both Modern and Colonial Lima. The Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, San Francisco Church and the exquisite Torre Tagle Palace, the modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima, we drive along the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro.
This afternoon we visit the world famous Larco Museum. The Larco Museum, founded in 1926, displays remarkable chronological galleries providing an excellent overview on 3000 years of development of Peruvian pre-Columbian history. Located in a unique vice-royal mansion of the 18th century built over a 7th century pre-Columbian pyramid is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Larco Museum also features the finest gold and silver collection from Ancient Peru and the famous erotic archaeological collection, one of the most visited Peruvian tourist attractions.
Late this afternoon we visit the Magic Water Circuit at Parque de la Reserva. This recently remodelled park boasts 12 beautiful, choreographed water fountains that literally “dance” to the music with special lighting and laser beams. This park is the pride of Lima and has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest water fountain park in the world. The 80-meter-high water fountain is an very impressive view.

Day 3:     Saturday :    Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley:    (B)
This morning we transfer to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snow-capped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet. Upon arrival we will transfer to the Sacred Valley at 8,200 feet of altitude.
We visit to Awana Kancha, the living Museum of the Andes. This Living Museum of the Andes, showcases the South American Camelids such as llamas, vicuñas, guanacos and alpacas in their native environment. We also enjoy a spinning and weaving demonstration of ancient techniques on how to make clothing from the wool fibres of these animals. We also see native flowers and some agricultural terraces from the Inca times.

Day 4:    Sunday :    Cusco – Moray, Maras and Quechuas:    (B/L)
We pass through unspoiled and picturesque Andean communities on our way to the Incan agricultural experimental centre of Moray, famous for its sunken amphitheatre, made up of four circular terraces, which appear to fade away into the earth like an artificial crater. The site was apparently an Inca agricultural research station filled with fertile earth and watered by complex irrigation systems, designed for experimenting with crops at various altitudes (some of which run down to depths of 100 meters).
Continue onto the impressive Maras salt pools formed by water emerging from a lake inside a mountain in the Urubamba Valley. This is an amazing view of evaporating ponds for the extraction of salt. Learn about ancestral techniques which are still used in agricultural irrigation and salt- recollection tasks, as well as in Andean festivals and rites.
After lunch, we then visit an authentic Quechua Village to understand the way of life of the Inca's ancestors. The Inca himself was a noble Quechua. They live off the land and are always wearing their colourful ponchos, see Quechua children scamper about while woman are weaving their family's clothes. A meaningful experience!
“Caballo de Paso” known worldwide for their smooth gaited movements and unusual spirit. No other horse combines strength, intelligence and beauty so perfectly as the Peruvian Paso Horse. The particular characteristic of the Paso Horse is precisely the reason for its name: the sublime charm of its typical step. As it walks, its front legs step very high and forward while the hooves sway to the sides in a graceful and synchronized movement. Enjoy a delightful demonstration of the skills of this unique member of the horse kingdom. Lunch is at a lovely restaurant in the Sacred Valley.

Day 5:     Monday :    Weaving, Pisac Market & Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex:    (B/L)
We travel to an unspoiled Andean village for an Impressive weaving demonstration by an amazing artisan specialist who learned to weave as a child. Since then they have worked with researchers on preserving the traditional themes and techniques of weaving in the Andean community. As an adult, they travelled extensively to the U.S. to organize weaving exhibits and workshops in several universities and the Textile Museum of Washington D.C. and offers an indigenous, multi-faceted perspective on the arts, as well as excellent facilitation and communication skills. You then have the opportunity to work with a one of a kind artist in a fascinating workshop on traditional back strap weaving techniques and a discussion on the role of weaving in a contemporary Andean culture.
Continue onto the fertile countryside of the Urubamba Valley to the colonial village of Pisac where a unique Indian Market takes place daily. The variety of products offered is overwhelming, from pottery with reproductions of archaeological pieces, to all kinds of textiles, jewellery and Peruvian handicrafts.
During our visit to this bustling marketplace we will have the opportunity to bargain with the artisans and indigenous traders. Grab the items you like; you will hardly see the same one again.
This afternoon we visit the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Complex; the Incas built it as a fort that included a temple, agricultural terraces and an urban area. There are two distinct sectors: The religious and worship zone, and the residential area. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative centre with probable military functions if one considers the walls and towers. There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts. The town of Ollantaytambo is called a "Living Inca Town" since the inhabitants maintain practices and customs of the Incas.

Day 6:     Tuesday :    Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu:    (B/L/D)
This morning we board the most luxurious railway service in South America, the Luxury Train “Hiram Bingham” to enjoy the unbelievable sights of the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of Yale University in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca “Virgins of the Sun” took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Join our guided tour of the Sanctuary with plenty of free time to study the mysterious site.
Brunch and four-course dinner and cocktails are aboard the Hiram Bingham. Afternoon “Tea Time Goodies” at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, located just a few steps from the Inca citadel is also included. Dinner at hotel.

Day 7:    Wednesday :    Machu Picchu:    (B/L/D)
Enjoy a spectacular sunrise breakfast at Sanctuary Lodge A Belmond’s Exclusive A-la-carte breakfast served in a secluded garden above the Sanctuary Lodge. During breakfast, enjoy stunning views of Machu Picchu (old mountain), Huayna Picchu (young mountain) and directly across the Urubamba river the great Putukusi. It is a spectacular natural and peaceful setting for some rest and relaxation.

Dinner at hotel.

Day 8:    Thursday :    Machu Picchu – Cusco:    (B)
Optional hike to Huayna Picchu
A morning hike to the steep stone-paved trail of Huayna Picchu, the pyramid-shape mountain above Machu Picchu to enjoy an impressive and breathtaking “condor view” of the site. The few of those who climb the peak take advantage of the opportunity to see the even more impressive Temple of Moon. Tucked into a complex of caves hidden from the main ruins is an otherworldly shrine — possibly a burial site — built directly into the mountain rock. The Temple of the Moon features some of the finest stonework in Machu Picchu.
The main reward for the climb up the ancient stone stairs is the most incredible view that can be achieved (short of a helicopter) of how Machu Picchu was carefully integrated into its natural surroundings. Among sky scraping Andean peaks tower in the distance while the winding Urubamba River nearly wraps itself around the main site. Do not miss it; Huayna Picchu is “what most people miss at Machu Picchu” (BBC Travel). Spaces are limited, reservation is needed. Optional hike to Huayna Picchu includes: Round trip bus & transfers and entrance fee.
Lunch at hotel. This afternoon we return to Cusco.

Day 9:    Friday :    Cusco – Handicraft markets & emblematic San Blas:    (B)
This morning our tour includes a visit to the emblematic Cusco neighbourhood of San Blas, filled with narrow typical streets, charming small homes, galleries and craft workshops, where you see local artisans at work. Followed by a visit to colourful markets in the city of Cusco. A visit to the Baroque pulpit of San Blas is also included. The pulpit itself is a masterpiece of carpentry and wood carving and is attributed to the renowned indigenous artist Diego QuispeTito.

Day 10:     Saturday :    Cusco City Tour & Nearby Ruins:    (B)
Following breakfast we tour the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, a delightful combination of Inca and colonial architecture. The tour visits important landmarks such us Cusco's Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Koricancha “The Temple of the Sun”. This tour of the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere also includes the nearby ruins of Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay as well as the Sacsayhuaman fortress, an imposing example of Inca military architecture.
We the visit a fabulous weaving community to learn from the local artisans about the culture and history of weaving. This afternoon there is an d optional Shopping and or Foodie Tour available.

Day 11:    Sunday :    Cusco:    (B/D)
A free day to discover this imperial city on your own. Meander through this lovely city, exploring the delightful narrow streets of this tile roof colonial town will be your unforgettable experience. You will find something astounding at every turn. Great buys are the traditional Peruvian handicrafts, alpaca-wool sweaters and rugs, ponchos, pottery, gold and silver jewellery, leather goods, etc. Because there are such a variety of products, we suggest that when you like any particular item, you should buy it - you may not find the same item anywhere else.

There is an optional Cooking Class that includes a market visit and learn about cooking local cuisine.
Dinner this evening is a unique experience in the splendour of a monastic dining room restored to full glory.

Day 12:     Monday :    Depart Peru via Cusco – Lima:    (B)
This morning, we check out of our hotel after breakfast. It is time to say farewell to acquaintances and new-found friends.

Transfer to the airport for your departure to Lima and your connecting international flight.

We take with us some wonderful memories of the rich tradition of Colonial Lima, the snow-capped roaring Andean mountains and lush valleys, and the zig-zag road to the overwhelming sight of Machu Picchu, the amazing legacy the Incas delicious food and fabulous times together filled with fun and laughter.

Some guests may wish to stay another day or more in this amazing country. Please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements.

Our itineraries are carefully planned to ensure you are rewarded with the best experiences in Peru The magic of travelling in a small group allows us to cater for spontaneity and it is sometimes these unplanned moments that can be the most memorable and together with the rich tapestry of experiences and the characters we meet along the way that make this a very special tour.

• A specially curated itinerary for Boutique Tours & Travel

• A Small Group Tour (8- 12 Guests)

• Private international airport arrival and departure transfers for all guests

• Hand selected modern & boutique hotel accommodation

• Meals as indicated in Itinerary; B = Breakfast: L=Lunch: D=Dinner:

• Internet Access where possible 

• Fully escorted by Australian Host 

• Private services of local bilingual cultural foodie & textile tour guide

• Concierge / Bellhop services throughout tour

• 24 hour on call support service 

• Luxury private chauffeur driven luxury air- conditioned vehicles for transfers & sightseeing

• Admission fees to all monuments, activities, excursions and shows as per the itinerary

• Bottled water whilst touring in vehicle

• Some porterage, tipping and gratuities

• An exclusive BT&T Travel Information App

• Room Sharing options for singles / solo travellers available  

Not Included:

• International airfares

• Arrival & Departure Taxes, levies or other charges

• Passport & Visa Fees

• City Taxes for hotels if required

• Personal Travel Insurance

• Excess baggage charges

• Cost of any ‘luggage delivery’. – via FedEx or postal services

• Late check-out at hotels

• Porterage and gratuities on your arrival at airport and hotel and in free time

• Extra gratuities to tour guides and drivers and others.

• Meals and Alcoholic beverages not included in the itinerary

• Expenditure of personal nature

• Optional activities not included in tour